The MLS Re-Entry Process Refresher

Ahead of the 2014 season, and before 2013 comes to an end, there will be a Re-Entry Process for veteran players, giving these experienced players, whose options have been declined by their current clubs or are out-of-contract, a chance to move within Major League Soccer. Among these players though, there are age and salary restrictions, and all eligible players must meet the following criteria:

If a player has played at least three years in MLS, is 23 or older, and has had their option declined by their current club, they are eligible for and available in the Re-Entry Process at their option salary.

If a player has at least four years experience in MLS, is 25 or older, is out of contract and their current club doesn’t offer them a new contract at their previous salary, they are eligible for and available in the Re-Entry Process at their previous season’s salary.

If a player has played at least eights years in MLS, is 30 years or older, is out of-contract and their club does not resign them to a new contract, they are eligible for and available in the Re-Entry Process for at least 105% of their previous salary.

The first stage of the draft will be held via conference call on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 3 pm ET, and D.C. United will have the first opportunity to select from the list of players. Any player not selected in the first round may be picked up in the second round of the draft, which will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 3 pm ET, also via conference call. All remaining players are available to any MLS team on a first-come-first-serve basis. CLICK HERE to see the Re-Entry Process selection order.